Ah, December. It’s cold. It’s Christmas-y. It’s chaotic. As we bundle up in sweaters and scarves, spending our time and money shopping ‘til we drop, we often find ourselves being a bit unpleasant those we love most. When our less charming side starts to show, it’s important for us to take a deep breath and simply let go of all that negativity.
Here’s the negative part of you that needs to go this December, based on your zodiac sign.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Let Go of Competitive Attitude
Though it’s always healthy to strive to be the best, the holiday season should be more about togetherness and sharing than one-upping everyone you know. Trying to outshine your family members and your friends with your lengthy list of this year’s achievements doesn’t spread the spirit of Christmas. Save that competitive drive for January, and try to work towards a promotion!
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Let Go of Vanity
Any Taurus loves to look her (or his) best, but sometimes that desire to sparkle comes at your own expense. Instead of focusing on dressing to impress and dreaming about the huge pile of presents you want to receive this month, it may serve you well to find your humility and garner a more down-to-earth spirit. You can still shimmer and shine this winter, just in a more grounded fashion.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Let Go of Judgmental Thoughts
Whether it’s thanks to some stranger acting ridiculously over a special sale at your favorite store or your own grandmother throwing you absurd questions, your tendency is to jump to a judgmental headspace. This time of year is all about giving and love, though! Shouldn’t we be thinking kind thoughts during the holidays? Reserving your judgement is no easy task, especially this time of year, but it’s an important one.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Let Go of Sensitivity
Though most people think of crabs as having that tough shell to protect them, the truth is that most Cancers have a vulnerable side, just like everyone else. Sometimes, dear Cancer, you tend to take others’ words to heart and be overly sensitive to criticism, and we all know that time with family during the holidays opens up the door to more critical blows than normal. Work towards letting things bounce off that shell and not break your heart. Let go of your sensitivity this month.
Leo (July 23-August 22)
Let Go of Arrogance
Oh, dear Leo, you thrive on being the best (and often, you are). However, nobody likes a know-it-all at the company Christmas party or a holier-than-thou attitude at the latest family gathering. Try to strip off that haughty nature just for this month, and see how your humility changes the world around you. You may be surprised how the world blossoms blossoms from this less arrogant you.
Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Let Go of Self-Pity
It’s incredibly easy to get wrapped up in your emotions, especially if the holidays bring up unpleasant memories from your past. It’s important to remember, though, that pity parties are never in style. Although you may not have a new, expensive car or get the most likes on your latest Instagram picture, you aren’t any less worthy than your flashier friends. People love you for who you are, especially when you don’t whine about how nobody likes you.
Libra (September 23-October 22)
Let Go of Manipulative Tendencies
It’s no surprise that you are a social butterfly who loves to be the center of attention. Sometimes, though, you can use your charisma and deep connections with others in ways don’t make you proud. Though it’s incredibly tempting to turn people into puppets, try to let go of those controlling desires for just a couple of weeks. Letting go of your manipulation may also mean relinquishing that perfect image of the holidays and that overwhelming urge to keep the peace. Just go with the flow, and you’ll be far happier this month.
Scorpio (October 23-November 21)
Let Go of Cruelty
Sometimes your sting can really hurt, Scorpion. You don’t always intend to cause harm, but being warm and fuzzy also isn’t your forte. Sometimes, your blunt nature means that you come across and cold and cruel; sometimes, that cruelty is even intentional. This month, make a conscious effort to spread kindness instead of hatred. You may have to spend some extra time thinking before you speak, but trust me, the happiness you receive in return will be worth it.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
Let Go of Argumentative Nature
Oh, how a Sagittarius loves a good battle of wits or a clean fight with words! However, sometimes it is best to bury the hatchet, even if the other party isn’t right. Work towards releasing that urge to pick a fight this December, and spread pleasantries instead.
Capricorn (December 22-January 19)
Let Go of Pessimism
You might say you are simply a realist, but often, Capricorn, your outlook on life is a bit too gloomy for most. You tend to find the worst in everything… even the holidays. This year, though, try giving a different gift; one with a little more light. You don’t have to feign absolute joy; just try to let go of your pessimistic attitude. Once you let in a little optimism, y may find the world glows more than you realized.
Aquarius (January 20-February 18)
Let Go of Overanalyzing Mind
This time of year can be troublesome for you because you spend all your time (over)thinking. Sometimes, though, when we think about our problems too much, we talk ourselves out of doing what we need. Overanalyzing leads to catastrophizing and fortune telling, neither of which are ever accurate or good for your mental health. This month, it would be in your best interest to stop trying to find hidden meaning in everything sniffing out the worst-case scenario. Just let go and enjoy every moment as it comes.
Pisces (February 19-March 20)
Let Go of Clingy Urges
Pisces, you are highly emotional, and because of that, sometimes you tend to cling. You may cling to people, memories, routines, or possessions; it’s all really the same. The problem is, sometimes, those desires to cling cause you to miss out on the present or put you in a deeply emotional state of mind. It’s OK to feel things this month, but try to let go of those clingy tendencies, so you can truly enjoy the holiday magic.
So now you know what to take off the Christmas menu this year to land you on Santa’s nice list. Without these uncouth personality traits that we all possess, you’ll find the holidays to be all the more merry and bright. So, snuggle up with those you love and sing yuletide carols into the night. Happy Holidays!
Previously Published on Thought Catalog
Photo by Rodolfo Sanches Carvalho on Unsplash
